5* Favourites

by Ella Ruben

This week’s blog is a guide to our five-star favourites. If you are looking for that extra bit of luxury for your next golf escape, then look no further than one of these fantastic hotels. Each of these properties offers excellent golf, a superb location, brilliant service and all of the facilities and amenities that you could possibly need for a fantastic golf trip.

The Westin Resort Costa Navarino is a fantastic resort set in a charming and beautiful area of Greece which boasts all of the facilities and amenities that you could possibly want or need for a superb golf break including two excellent golf courses and easy access to a stunning beach. You are set just a five-minute walk from the Dunes Beach where you can relax but there are also several brilliant pool areas for guests to enjoy as well. If you are looking for somewhere that offers you the utmost luxury, then this is a great resort for you as you can relax further by treating yourself to signature treatments at the Anazoe Spa or enjoying the spa’s sauna. No matter who you are travelling with, there will be something for everyone to do with the resort’s extensive facilities and more importantly, there will be something for everyone to eat and drink. The resort boasts over ten restaurants and bars which serve mouth-watering cuisine from traditional Greek food to Internationally themed restaurants. At one of the three bars and lounges, you can enjoy a signature cocktail or two…Each of the hotel’s guestrooms is decorated with contemporary furniture and light wood and they all boast a private balcony from which you can enjoy views of the resorts’ olive groves and landscaped gardens. From the resort, you can easily explore some brilliant UNESCO World Heritage List sites including Olympia, Mystras and the Temple of Apollo Epicurius. When you are thinking about the destination for your next golf escape look no further than The Westin Resort in Costa Navarino and its two brilliant golf courses…

Next up, we have the superb Palacio Estoril Hotel Golf and Spa which boasts an idyllic location situated in the heart of the sophisticated resort of Estoril and just four minutes’ walk from the beautiful beach. The resort boasts everything that you could want and more with its five-star accommodation, brilliant casino, a spa and wellness centre and a year-round outdoor pool. During the days, spend time relaxing on the beach, by the pool or in the Banyan Tree spa where you can treat yourself to some luxurious treatments and relax in the dynamic pool. Each of the guestrooms is decorated slightly different but exudes elegance and charm, much like all of the public areas. Each of the rooms is fitted with a seating area as well as all of the facilities and amenities that you would expect from a hotel of this standard including a flat-screen TV and air-conditioning. Enjoy both continental and oriental buffet breakfast options as well as dinner in the fantastic restaurant which serves delicious European cuisine. If you are looking for a hotel that is filled with old charm and character whilst boasting brilliant service and everything that you could need for a fantastic golf holiday, then look no further than the lovely Palacio Estoril Hotel Golf and Spa. For a limited time only, if you are looking to book the Palacio Estoril Hotel Golf and Spa between November this year and October next year then you will receive up to two nights and two rounds on the fantastic Golf do Estoril course…

Last, but certainly not least, is the Evolutee Royal Obidos Hotel and Spa. Unsurprisingly, this resort was the winner of the IAGTO Best Resort in Europe in 2015 and also the Best Course in Portugal in 2015 and this resort has only improved since then. The hotel only opened its doors in 2014 and has quickly become one of Golf Escape’s favourites with brilliant service, excellent golf and great facilities. Spend your days playing golf on the many local golf courses including Bom Sucesso, Praia d’el Rey, Royal Obidos, Campo Real and West Cliffs Golf Links or relaxing on the beach or in the hotel’s extensive spa. The hotel is situated on the stunning Silver Coast just over an hour from the bustling city of Lisbon. If you are looking for a lovely boutique hotel which boasts a stunning 18-hole, award-winning golf course as well as many local golf courses, a great spa onsite then look no further than the Evolutee Royal Obidos Hotel and Spa for your next golf holiday to Portugal.

We hope that you have enjoyed this week’s blog and that next time you are looking for a luxurious golf escape, look no further than one of these brilliant resorts…

Murcia Special

by Ella Ruben

This week’s blog is a guide to the brilliant resorts and golf that you can enjoy if you decide to take your next golf break to the stunning region of Murcia which lies in the South East corner of Spain which boasts warm temperatures for most of the year which makes it a prime golfing destination. The flight to Murcia is a short one and possible from most of the UK’s regional airports which means that whether you are looking for a short golf break or a long relaxing golf escape, Murcia is the perfect place for you.

The TRYP Murcia Rincon de Pepe is a fantastic four-star resort which boasts a fantastic location situated in the centre of Murcia, just 100 yards from the beautiful Murcia Cathedral which means that you have a prime position from which to explore this historic and interesting Spanish city and all that it has to offer. The hotel boasts a number of amenities for you to enjoy including the on-site fitness centre and of course, the Gran Casino Murcia which includes all of the mainstream casino games like Poker, blackjack and roulette. Each of the bright guestrooms is decorated with a modern décor and fitted with all of the amenities that you would expect from a hotel of this standard including a flat-screen satellite TV and a minibar as well as free toiletries. As the hotel boasts such a brilliant position, you can explore the great bars and restaurants of the city of Murcia but if you choose to dine in the hotel, you won’t be disappointed. The hotel offers two great restaurants, the Rincon de Pepe Restaurant boasts a classic style with an a la carte Mediterranean style menu. Alternatively, you can enjoy a more informal atmosphere at the La Barra del Rincon Restaurant which serves delicious Spanish tapas which you can enjoy in the outdoor dining area. If you are looking for somewhere with some superb golf within close proximity of the hotel as well as the beautiful city of Murcia right on your doorstep then look no further than this fantastic four-star hotel which boasts everything that you could need or want for a brilliant golf escape.

Lorca Golf course is situated close to the historic and pretty town of Lorca and is one of the many golf courses that you could enjoy during your stay at the fantastic TRYP Murcia Rincon de Pepe. The course is a par 71 and was designed by Dave Thomas and Jorge Soler with undulating greens and many strategically placed bunkers which can cause for this course to pose a challenge to golfers of all abilities. The course only opened in 2011 which means that it is considered to be relatively new to the area, but it has a blossoming reputation due to the quality of the course and the quality of the standard of service that you receive whilst at the golf club. The club also boasts a very special position as not only is it easily accessible from local areas, but it is the only golf course in Murcia that runs alongside at Protected Natural Park. This is a brilliant golf course with a very interesting layout and a stunning position – one that should not be passed up on when you are enjoying a golf break to this lovely region.

Roda Golf is just over a kilometre from Mar Menor Beach and five minutes from the resort of Los Alcazares where there are shops, bars and restaurants. There is a large selection of different apartments and villas to rent which are all within walking distance of the fantastic 18-hole Dave Thomas designed Roda Golf course. All of the apartments boast fully-equipped kitchens as well as seating areas and a TV. There are plenty of local activities for you to enjoy including the swimming pools within the resort, watersports at the beach and of course, the fantastic golf. The resort’s clubhouse boasts a great bar and restaurant which offers free Wi-Fi and a beautiful outdoor seating area with great views over the resort and the golf course. Roda Golf course is a brilliant and interesting course which was built on flat land, so the challenges come from the various strategically placed water hazards and bunkers. If you are looking for a great golf escape to this beautiful region where you can self-cater whilst soaking up the great local activities and beaches, then look no further than Roda Golf.

We hope that you have enjoyed this week’s blog and with the weather warming up in the UK now, we hope that you are thinking about how you might get some extra sunshine come the Autumn time when the days are drawing in here…with over 3,000 hours of sunshine every year, the region of Murcia sounds like a sensible option for your next golf escape…

Costa del Golf

by Ella Ruben

This week’s blog is on the great courses and golf resorts that you can enjoy if you book your next golf escape to the Costa del Sol. The Costa del Sol has been aptly named the “Costa del Golf” and it isn’t hard to see why, this beautiful region is home to dozen superb golf courses along the coast and the mountains from Malaga in the east to Gibraltar in the west. Another great thing about the Costa del Sol is that there is easy access from the UK with almost all of the major airports providing flights to Malaga at very affordable rates. Whether you are travelling with fellow golfers, your family or in a couple, there is something for everyone to do here with the fantastic golf resorts and range of different attractions dependent upon which area you choose to stay within!

First up, we have the excellent El Chaparral Golf Club which is one of the most well-known golf courses in the Costa del Sol and boasts a beautiful location just 700 metres from the beach and enclosed by a forest of pine trees. This is a brilliant par 72, parkland course which travels along the breathtaking coastline of Mijas Costa just a short drive from Malaga. Although the course is not especially long at 6,000 metres, it is a tricky one which requires accuracy from the outset as there is so much variety between holes. There are very few courses on the Costa del Sol which are appointed with the impressive features of El Chaparral with its exciting topography that boasts dramatic valleys and barrancas that you must be very wary of! There is no surprise that this course consistently ranks as one of the top courses in the whole of Spain with its wonderful layout, excellent maintenance and a brilliant location near to Fuengirola and Malaga.

Situated just one-minute walk from the beach and just over half a mile from central Puerto Banus is the four-star Iberostar Marbella Coral Beach. The hotel is set among lush palm gardens and boasts all of the facilities and amenities that you could possibly need to have a brilliant golf break to the Costa del Sol with outdoor pools, a beach club, two restaurants, a gym and beautifully decorated guest rooms. The hotel boasts a buffet-style restaurant and an a la carte restaurant which is located at the beach club and both of the restaurants serve the traditional Mediterranean and Andalusian cuisine. Each of the guest rooms features all of the amenities that you would expect from a hotel of this standard including a satellite TV, a safe and a private bathroom with a hairdryer and toiletries. Many of the rooms boast stunning views of the sea, the gardens or the pool. Whilst you are not lazing by the pool, exercising in the gym or relaxing within the hotel’s spa then make sure that you experience the golf in the local area. Los Arqueros Golf and El Higueral Golf are within easy access of the hotel and are fantastic golf courses which will round off your holiday at this great hotel perfectly.

The four-star Iberostar Costa del Sol is situated just two minutes’ walk from the beach on the Costa del Sol’s Golden Mile. From the hotel, you can enjoy direct access to the beach as well as a swimming pool complex and the well-equipped spa. The hotel’s outdoor swimming pool boasts water slides, jets and a hot tub for you to enjoy. If you are planning on travelling with your family, you can take advantage of the kid’s club and the other entertainment options. Take some time to relax in the hotel’s large Sensations spa which includes various swimming pools, a sauna, a Turkish bath and an ice cave as well as tropical showers and a relaxation area. This is a brilliant hotel with so much to do and enjoy within the resort, the rooms are also lovely, and each boasts its own furnished balcony as well as the other amenities and facilities that you would want or need. The resort boasts easy access to two excellent golf courses – Santa Clara and El Paraiso which are the perfect addition to your stay at this excellent hotel.

El Paraiso is one of the most established courses on the Costa del Sol and all of its 18 holes are set in a valley which runs from the Mediterranean to the foothills of the impressive Sierra Bermaja Mountains where palm trees and a variety of fauna line the lush fairways. This is not a short course at just over 6,600 yards and poses a great challenge to golfers of all abilities with its many strategically placed hazards situated along the course. There are many lakes and streams to test every golfer. There are not many courses that could say that they have two signature holes but the club at El Paraiso considers its signature hole to be the doglegged 6th hole which is a brilliant par five in which a lake must be avoided which is sat to the right of the fairway and the putting surface is a tricky, two-tiered affair! However, many golfers consider the par four 8th hole which is a beautiful and downhill hole the course’s signature hole. Make sure that you book your next golf holiday to the Costa del Sol and make up your own mind about El Paraiso’s signature hole…

We hope that you have enjoyed this week’s blog and that some of these resorts and their courses have caught your eye for your next brilliant golf escape to the Costa del Sol…

Golf in the Sun

by Ella Ruben

This week’s blog is a guide to some of the brilliant resorts and courses that are available to you for booking for your next fantastic golf escape. No matter where you are looking to travel to, we are sure that we have something brilliant that you will love. If you are contemplating booking a golf break, then look no further than some of these spectacular resorts and courses that you could be enjoying in person…

The El Paraiso golf course boasts a stunning location nestled in a peaceful valley near the popular resort town of Marbella with the stunning La Concha Mountain as its backdrop. This is one of the most established courses on the Costa del Sol and poses a stern challenge for golfers of all abilities due to its length of 6,800 yards and the many strategically placed hazards that you have to contend with in order to score well. The greens are superbly kept and run fast and true, much like the palm tree-lined fairways. Along with the fast greens, you must watch out for the many water hazards that line and cross the fairways at different points along the course. This is a beautiful location for a round of golf and the layout matches the quality of the location with interesting holes and challenges for you to enjoy. The course’s signature hole is the par five, doglegged 6th hole where you must avoid the lake which is situated on the right of the fairway and contend with the tricky putting surface which is two-tiered. This is a spectacular hole but is not the only brilliant hole of this course as there are plenty of others including the par four 8th hole which is a stunning, downhill hole. This is an excellent golf course with a great location, interesting layout and a stern challenge – if you are looking to play here then we cannot recommend the four-star Iberostar Costa del Sol enough.

The five-star Fairplay Golf and Spa Resort is located in one of the most beautiful enclaves in Europe – South Andalusia. The hotel boasts a prime location, situated in the centre of Cadiz which is well-known for its stunning beaches and beautiful scenery. The resort is designed as a small, white Andalusian town with narrow streets and squares for you to meander down and explore. Each of the guestrooms and suites boasts modern décor and all of the facilities that you would expect from a resort of this standard including a flat-screen TV, free Wi-Fi and a minibar. Many of the rooms and suites boast lovely views of the golf course, courtyard or the countryside. There are three a la carte restaurants within the resort including a Mediterranean themed restaurant and a buffet restaurant. Besides these restaurants, you can also enjoy the poolside brasserie and the Clubhouse snack bar. Whilst you are not relaxing around one of the outdoor swimming pools, enjoying a round on the resort’s golf course or exploring the local area, you can relax within the luxury spa and wellness centre where there is a hot tub, a sauna, hydrotherapy treatments and facials and massages available. This is a stunning hotel with everything that you could possibly need to have an amazing golf holiday in Andalusia.

Sueno Hotels Golf Belek is a luxurious and beautiful golf resort situated in Turkey which boasts two excellent 18-hole golf courses on-site as well as all of the other facilities and amenities that you could possibly need in order to have a great golf escape. You can meander down to the beach whilst you are not enjoying relaxing around the outdoor pool or in the hotel’s spa as the beach is just seven minutes’ walk from the hotel. The hotel’s beach club is excellent with hammocks available and the pier for you to relax on which juts out into the Mediterranean Sea which boasts a bar and sun loungers. The hotel’s spa boasts a sauna as well as eight massage rooms and holistic beauty treatments. Whilst you are staying at Sueno Hotels Golf, you can enjoy the hotel’s buffet restaurant or one of the several a la carte restaurants. This is a stunning five-star hotel with well-equipped guest rooms, brilliant service and great golf for you to enjoy.

Last, but certainly not least, is the brilliant, five-star Ritz-Carlton, Abama which offers its guests an unforgettable stay in this peaceful and tranquil setting away from the more commercialised areas of the island of Tenerife. Each of the 300 guestrooms and suites and the 120 villas have been decorated in a Moorish style and they all boast stunning views of either the ocean, the gardens or the brilliant Abama Golf. Each of the rooms boasts everything that you could want or need to have a relaxing and enjoyable golf escape with modern essentials including free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning and flat-screen TVs. Whilst you are not out enjoying a round of golf on the Abama golf course, which is truly stunning, you can relax around one of the hotel’s seven different pools. You are spoilt for choice at the Ritz-Carlton, Abama, not only with the number of things to do and see but also with the impressive 10 different dining options. These options include the hotel’s Michelin star restaurants – M.B and Kabuki. Alternatively, you can enjoy a brilliant steakhouse or authentic Japanese cuisine. This is a superb hotel with all of the luxuries that you could want or need for a brilliant golf break including a stunning 18-hole championship golf course!

We hope that you have enjoyed this week’s blog and that when you are planning your next golf escape you take a look at some of these resorts and their fantastic courses…

 

4* Favourite Golf Escapes

by Ella Ruben

This week’s blog is a guide to some of our four-star favourite hotels which boast fantastic facilities, excellent locations and superb golf that you can enjoy. With the sun starting to come out, it is time to start thinking about your summer golf escape to make sure that you get to enjoy some sunshine and some beautiful golf this year…

The excellent four-star Praia Verde Boutique Hotel boasts an amazing location just nine minutes’ walk from the beach in the heart of Eastern Algarve. The hotel is set amongst lush green pine trees, so you can enjoy the feeling of peace and tranquillity, but you are just five minutes’ drive from the centre of Monte Gordo where there is a variety of different bars and restaurants to enjoy. This is a beautiful and classy hotel with comfortable and spacious rooms which are fully-equipped with all of the amenities that you could need including free Wi-Fi and a flat-screen TV. As you are so close to so many bars and restaurants, you may choose to eat out but if you decide to remain within the hotel, you won’t be disappointed as the hotel’s restaurant serves homemade, delicious cuisine. This is a great little hotel with everything that you could possibly need for a brilliant golf break to the Algarve with an outdoor pool, the beach and a great town nearby and fantastic golf at Quinta do Vale.

The charming Montado Hotel and Golf Resort is situated just 30 minutes south of Lisbon and boasts its own 18-hole golf course on site as well as other excellent facilities. The great thing about Montado Hotel and Golf Resort is that it is situated in a beautiful and tranquil location surrounded by the region’s best vineyards, but it is also just 15 minutes from the historic city centre of Setubal and five minutes’ drive from Palmela village. Each of the guestrooms boasts a contemporary theme and boasts a flat-screen TV, tea and coffee making facilities as well as stunning views overlooking the golf course. At the hotel’s Pitch and Putt Bar, you can enjoy a range of light meals, drinks or pastries whilst overlooking the golf course. The hotel’s main restaurant offers a superb menu with a collaboration of regional and international dishes. Whilst you are not enjoying a round on the Montado golf course, you can access the hotel’s spa facilities or go for a swim in the pool. Whether you are looking to travel with friends, family or a group, this is an excellent four-star hotel for you to choose for your next golf break to the Lisbon area.

Hotel Alicante Golf is a brilliant four-star hotel situated on the stunning Costa Blanca. Situated just ten minutes’ walk from the beach (there is a free transfer during the summer months) and set in beautiful gardens sits this lovely hotel which also features its own 18-hole golf course as well as other excellent facilities. Whilst you are not enjoying a round of brilliant golf, you can relax around the hotel’s outdoor pool or in the designated relax area. There is also the hotel’s spa for you to enjoy which boasts an indoor pool, a sauna and a massage service. The hotel is situated along Playa San Juan where there is a fantastic array of bars and restaurants for you to enjoy which means that you will never be short of some great food and wine during your stay here. It is no surprise that Hotel Alicante Golf is one of our recommendations for a brilliant golf escape to the Alicante area with everything that you could need or want for a fantastic golf break.

Last, but certainly not least, is the brilliant Crete Golf Club Hotel where you can enjoy world-class service at a stunning hotel in an excellent location. The hotels itself is situated at The Crete Golf Club which is a fantastic 18-hole championship course in Hersonissos. Whilst you are not out enjoying a fantastic round of golf, you can spend time relaxing around the hotel’s pool which is a beautiful infinity pool which boasts stunning views overlooking the golf course, the nearby mountains and the sea. Alternatively, you can use the hotel’s well-equipped fitness centre. All of the hotel’s rooms are fitted with all of the facilities and amenities that you could possibly want or need for a brilliant golf escape including flat-screen TV and Wi-Fi. If you are looking for somewhere where there is plenty to do in the local area, then this is a great one for you as Aquaworld Aquarium and Labyrinth Park are just over a mile away from the hotel. The popular resort of Malia is just 15 minutes’ drive from the hotel and boasts great nightlife and stunning beaches. With so much to do, see, eat and drink in the hotel and the hotel’s local area as well as the superb golf course onsite, this is the perfect place for your next golf holiday.

 

We hope that you have enjoyed this week’s blog and that this blog has piqued your interest about some of the excellent hotels and golf courses that you can enjoy somewhere sunny this year…

Re-cap of the European Tour 2018 so far

by Ella Ruben

This week’s blog is a recap of the European Tour 2018 and its most notable events so far including AfrAsia Mauritius Open, Eurasia Cup in Malaysia, Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship, The Masters, Open de Espana, GolfSixes and the Rocco Forte Sicilian Open which was played just last weekend For any golfing fanatic these are must-see events which are played on magnificent courses by the top golfers from around the world.

The AfrAsia Mauritius Open was hosted by the fantastic Heritage Golf Club which is located in the southern part of the stunning island of Mauritius and has been recently recognised as one of the top courses in Africa. The championship course boasts breathtaking views from every green and tee and it posed an exciting challenge for the golfers that took on this course last December. It was at Heritage Golf Club that Dylan Frittelli captured his second European Tour at the first playoff hole beating Arjun Atwal.

The Eurasia Cup was held in January this year at the Glenmarie Golf and Country Club and although the European team were losing after Friday’s Fourball and Saturday’s Foursomes, on Sunday the team gathered 8.5 points in order to seal their 14-10 victory over the host team. The Europe Captain, Thomas Bjørn, expressed his delight over the team’s great performance to persevere after they were trailing behind before Sunday’s events. This was a great win for the Europe Team and they have successfully defended their Eurasia Cup.

Later in January earlier this year was the Abu Dhabi HSBC Championship which was held at the fantastic Abu Dhabi Golf Club where it has been held for many years now. This national golf club is often regarded by the professional golfers as being a tough but fair challenge being 7,600 yards in length as well as boasting many strategically positioned hazards including bold bunkering, ornamental trees and saltwater lakes. Tommy Fleetwood took home the title in 2017 and came back to defend his title this year and succeeded making it his second year in a row here at Abu Dhabi Golf Club. His back nine display was nothing short of spectacular as he closed with 65, 22 under-par which left him with a two-shot victory over fellow Englishman Ross Fisher.

The Masters, once again held at the spectacular Augusta National Golf Club, was played in early April and did not disappoint viewers of this well-known and impressive golfing championship. The competition is played over four days and 72 holes where the best golfers from around the world get the chance to compete to take home the Green Jacket and a place in the Masters’ history. Augusta National Golf Club is an impressive, members-only club with immaculate greens, stunning scenery and an interesting, diverse and tricky layout which puts professionals and amateurs alike to the test every year. American Patrick Reed claimed the Green Jacket last month with his impressive win at Augusta National Golf Club, the two-time Ryder Cup star picked up his first Major at this fantastic and prestigious event and along with this, he also surged to the top spot in the European Tour’s Race to Dubai.

Just north of Madrid sits the impressive Centro Nacional de Golf which boasts 18 holes of stunning golf that skirt the walls of the Monte del Pardo Park. The club has played host to some of the best golfers in the world in the past and before this year, last hosted the Open de Espana in 2007 just a year after it had opened. The World Number Four, Jon Rahm, claimed victory at the Open de Espana last April and when he did so, he also claimed his third European Tour title. This was just a short time after he finished fourth at Augusta National Golf Club at The Masters. This win for Rahm has also impacted the Race to Dubai rankings with him moving up into an impressive fifth place. There is no doubt that Jon Rahm is one to watch as he seems to be turning into his country’s next icon…

The GolfSixes boasts an innovative playing format with the addition of women’s and mixed teams which brought lots of media attention and huge crowds to the Centurion Club near St Albans earlier this month. The course was designed by Simon Gidman in 2013 and boasts a great links feel. The tees are positioned above the fairways so that there are spectacular views from them, but the golfers mustn’t be distracted by the views as there are about 80 bunkers and four major water hazards positioned along the course. Players at the competition faced a modified six-hole course and each of the holes comprised of a different skill element including a shot clock. Ireland were the ones who put on a dominant display over the six matches and two days at Centurion Club to win the second GolfSixes. In all of the six stages, Ireland came out on top.

The most recent European Tour event, Rocco Forte Sicilian Open was played over last weekend at Verdura Golf Club. Verdura Resort boasts a stunning location situated within a valley of olive groves close to the seaside town of Sciacca. The course used for the Open was a spectacular combination of the two courses at Verdura and featured a dramatic finish with the final six holes running alongside the coast with the backdrop of the Mediterranean Sea. It was at Verdura Golf Club last weekend that Sweden’s Lagergren took his first European Tour title and with this title, made an impressive jump from 245th in the world rankings to 133rd as well as moving to 47th in the Race to Dubai rankings.

There has already been some amazing golf played this year and with some more exciting events coming up like the Belgian Knockout which is being played at Rinkven International Golf Club starting today, the BMW PGA Championship which will be hosted at Wentworth Club later this month, the Italian Open which is also starting later this month at Gardagolf Golf Club and of course, the US Open and Shinnecock Hills Golf Club next month! It is all about who will rank highest in the Race to Dubai…

The Best of Cyprus

by Ella Ruben

This week’s blog is a guide to the best properties and golf that is on offer in Cyprus. Whatever you are looking for from your next golf escape including stunning weather, beautiful resorts, great golf and interesting culture, you will be able to find it with a trip to Cyprus.

The Thanos Almyra Hotel is a stunning five-star resort which boasts a beautiful location overlooking the Mediterranean Sea and nearby to some excellent golf courses like Elea Golf Club, Minthis Golf Club and Secret Valley. There is so much for you to do and see whilst staying at the Thanos Almyra Hotel including enjoying the vibrant nightlife in the resort of Paphos, relaxing on the beach or around the four freshwater pools. There is also the chance to enjoy some watersports on the beach, some exercise in the well-equipped gym, play tennis or unwind with a treatment within the hotel’s spa. With so much to do and see, luxury rooms with stunning views, four different restaurants and excellent service, it is no surprise that we recommend Thanos Almyra for your next golf holiday to Cyprus.

The sister hotel to Thanos Almyra is the Thanos Annabelle Hotel which is another stunning five-star resort. Whilst you are staying at Thanos Annabelle, you can enjoy access to Almyra’s spa facilities but there are plenty of things to enjoy within Thanos Annabelle’s grounds including lush gardens, a lovely outdoor pool to relax around and lovely rooms to relax in as well as the beach. This is a very popular hotel and it isn’t hard to see why with its great local golf courses, superb location being so close to the harbour of Paphos, excellent service and brilliant facilities.

Minthis Golf Club is just one of the excellent golf courses within a close distance of the fantastic Thanos hotels. The course is situated on an elevated position of 550 metres above sea level which means that even in the height of summer, a breeze will still influence the difficulty of this course! The course blends effortlessly into its surroundings and is a firm favourite of golfers who come to Cyprus. Although the course isn’t especially long at just under 6,000 yards, its fairways are lined with many fruit trees and grape vines and boast slopes which can prove challenging to golfers with higher handicaps. This is a great course which will require golfers of all abilities to play their best game of golf if they hope to finish the round with a good scorecard!

The five-star Aphrodite Hills Hotel is situated in the heart of the Aphrodite Hills Resort and offers brilliant leisure facilities, great service and entertainment options as well as lovely accommodation. You can enjoy having easy access to the excellent Aphrodite Hills Golf course which is situated on-site of the resort and after a round, you can enjoy relaxing around the pool whilst soaking up some rays, you can also enjoy a signature massage or facial within the Retreat Spa. The hotel boasts three fantastic restaurants which serve different cuisines including Asian and authentic Mediterranean. You can enjoy relaxing in the Carob Lounge with a lovely cocktail enjoying the live entertainment in the evenings. With so much to do and see in the lovely town of Paphos, it is no surprise that we have recommended this hotel as the perfect base for you to enjoy Paphos and everything that it has to offer.

Last, but not least, we recommend the Aphrodite Hills Holiday Residences for your next golf break to Cyprus and it isn’t hard to see why. The Aphrodite Hills Holiday Residences are the perfect choice if you are looking for a more intimate golf break as you can enjoy either a small apartment or large private villa but still have all of the facilities and luxuries of the excellent Aphrodite Hills Resort. From the resort, you can explore the beautiful beaches of Paphos or enjoy relaxing around the pool whilst you are not challenging the Aphrodite Hills PGA National Cyprus Golf Club. The benefit of staying within the Holiday Residences is that you can use the self-catering facilities within your property or enjoy the three different restaurants on the Aphrodite Hills Resort.

The Aphrodite Hills, PGA National Cyprus was designed by the fantastic Cabell Robinson and was opened to the public in 2002. This course is a very impressive one and is the perfect mix of pot bunkers, stunning fairways or lush Bermuda grass and tiered greens. The course meanders through indigenous olive and carob trees and is separated by a breathtaking ravine making it a visually spectacular course. This is a truly stunning course but is a difficult one for those of all handicaps so make sure that you bring your best game to the first tee!

We hope that you have enjoyed this week’s blog and that when you are considering your options for your next golf escape, look no further than the wonders that Cyprus and these fantastic resorts have to offer you…

Best Golfing Deals for Groups

by Ella Ruben

This week’s blog is a guide to a couple of the best properties and their golf courses that we have on offer for groups. Besides great value, these properties offer excellent golf either on-site or within the local area, lovely facilities and the atmosphere that you would want from a resort that you were staying at for your next group golf escape.

Islantilla Golf Resort is a brilliant four-star hotel which boasts an excellent location just next to the fantastic 27-hole Islantilla golf course and only 10 minutes’ walk from the beach. There are plenty of things to do at the resort besides playing golf including two paddle tennis courts and a spa to relax in. As there are four restaurants within the resort, you will never be short of somewhere excellent to eat and drink as there is something that will appeal to everyone. There is the varied buffet restaurant, an Andalusian grill bar which is open during high season by the pool. You can also enjoy the Italian restaurant and the Beach Club where you can sit and enjoy a bite to eat and a few drinks on the lounge-terrace overlooking the sea. This is an excellent hotel with stylish rooms, a pleasant atmosphere, excellent facilities and great golf as well as its brilliant beach club where you can find a pool, watersports and a beach bar.

Islantilla is a great 27-hole complex just an hours’ drive from Faro Airport and is regarded as one of Southern Spain’s finest courses. All three of the nine loops meander through pinewoods and many of the holes boast stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. The beauty of having three different 9-hole layouts is that you can choose to play the two loops that take your fancy or the ones that are most suited to your golfing ability. Each and every one of the 27-holes at Islantilla is kept in perfect condition all year round and you are sure to have a superb golfing experience here. With three different loops of 9-hole which are all excellent, a brilliant resort to enjoy and beautiful weather on the Costa de la Luz for many months of the year, it is no surprise that we highly recommend Islantilla Golf Resort for your next group golf break.

The four-star Magnolia Hotel boasts a fantastic location situated in the surroundings of the prime golf destination of Quinta do Lago which means that it is close to some of the finest golf courses, most beautiful beaches and great shops in the Algarve. Each of the 74 stylish and well-appointed guest rooms is equipped with air-conditioning, modern amenities and private balconies. The hotel’s poolside restaurant is the ideal place to enjoy brunch, lunch or dinner where you will be served a variety of different local dishes as well as international favourites. At the bar, you can enjoy cocktails and other beverages either at the indoor bar or poolside. Whilst you are not enjoying a round on one of the excellent Quinta do Lago golf courses, you can spend time relaxing by the heated outdoor pool, workout in the gym or on the tennis court or relax in the hotel’s sauna and steam room.

The highly acclaimed Quinta do Lago and Vale do Lobo courses are just a short drive from the hotel which makes this an ideal option for a great stay-and-play golf break to the Algarve. Quinta do Lago Laranjal was originally an orange grove but today it is a stunning 18-hole championship golf course where you can enjoy a challenging round of golf with its undulating fairways, large lakes and well-defined greens. This is a superb golf course where accuracy is key if you are hoping for a good scorecard.

Quinta do Lago North has undergone extensive redevelopments alongside Paul McGinley and it has been developed into a superb course with some very impressive holes. In particular, the finishing holes offer you the chance to take some great risks and maybe get rewarded if you play well!

Last, but not least, is Quinta do Lago South which is one of the most requested courses on the Algarve and is perfect if you are a long but accurate hitter. With stunning surroundings, many water hazards and weaving fairways in and out of the pine trees, this is a challenge but an excellent round of golf for those of all abilities. With these three excellent golf courses as well as the other facilities and excellent accommodation options within the resort, we hope that you consider this excellent resort for your next group golf escape to the Algarve.  

We hope that you have enjoyed this week’s blog, and that when you are thinking about where you and your group should be jetting off to for your next golf holiday, then look no further than one of these great resorts and if you book with us now, we are offering an exclusive J Lindeberg golf polo shirt to any bookings made to the Algarve…

Golf On-site

by Ella Ruben

This week’s blog is a guide to the great hotels and resorts that you can enjoy which boast an incredible 18-hole golf course onsite. Stay-and-play holidays are perfect if you have an excellent resort and a great golf course that you can enjoy for a few rounds and these recommendations are not exceptions to that criteria.

La Cala Golf Resort has established itself as being the premier golf resort on the Costa del Sol and it isn’t hard to see why with its luxurious accommodation, brilliant facilities and no less than three excellent golf courses onsite. The resort is up in the hills just ten minutes from the bustling town of La Cala which makes it the perfect destination for a great stay and play golf escape as you have the luxury of playing on three different golf courses – La Cala America, Asia and Europa – as well as being just ten minutes from a great town where you can find the beach and an array of different bars and restaurants to enjoy. La Cala America is a hilly and brilliant course which is built high up in the hills around La Cala Resort and boasts excellent views because of this marvellous position but, don’t be distracted by the views as you must hit straight in order to score well. La Cala Asia is similar to the America course except that it is narrower and shorter, but this doesn’t mean that it is easy, as it is actually the most difficult course out of the trio. La Cala Europa was the third and final course to be built at La Cala and boasts the same excellent features including elevated tees, rolling fairways and big, undulating greens but is a little easier with wider fairways and less penal rough. With three excellent courses, a superb location and lovely accommodations to enjoy it is no surprise that we recommend this resort for your next stay and play golf break.

Next up, we have the fantastic La Manga resort which boasts a whole range of different leisure activities as well as two excellent options for accommodation and three excellent golf courses. You can choose to stay at the five-star hotel – La Manga Club Principe Felipe – which boasts stunning public areas, beautiful guest rooms and a lovely pool area and pool bar which you can enjoy after a tough morning out on one of the golf courses. Alternatively, you can choose to stay in the four-star La Manga Club Las Lomas Village where you can find excellent apartments which are fully-fitted with a kitchen and living area each to make your break an easy one with self-catering options. These apartments are built into the hillside and are a great option whether you are travelling as a group, a couple or with your family. At La Manga, you can enjoy access to their impressive spa which is built across two floors and boasts all of the facilities that you would expect from a spa on a resort as impressive as this one. The three La Manga courses offer you enjoyment right from the first tee with stunning views and tricky shots to contend with. This is another excellent resort, but this time situated in Murcia, that we highly recommend for your next golf break.

Precise Resort El Rompido is a fabulous and luxurious five-star hotel situated overlooking the two El Rompido courses just a short drive from the picturesque fishing village of El Rompido. The hotel offers excellent facilities including a brilliant spa which boasts an indoor swimming pool, Turkish baths and a sauna. There is also a lovely outdoor pool which you can relax around after enjoying a round or two on the excellent 36-hole golf course situated on-site of the hotel. The rooms are all beautifully decorated and boast all of the facilities that you would expect from a hotel of this standard including a satellite TV and a minibar. You can enjoy rounds on both the El Rompido North and El Rompido South whilst you are here, but this hotel is in a great location for golfers as there are so many other great golf courses in the area that you can enjoy as well. If you are looking for a beautiful hotel in which to enjoy an excellent stay and play golf escape, then look no further then Precise Resort El Rompido.

Last, but certainly not least, is the Dolce Campo Real Golf Resort and Spa which is a stunning five-star hotel set in the stunning Portuguese countryside and is surrounded by vineyards and lovely villages. The resort is located just 30 minutes’ drive from Lisbon and the airport, the model hotel offers a wide range of facilities including the excellent 18-hole Camp Real golf course, tennis courts, a lovely spa and a variety of different restaurants to enjoy. Nearby to the hotel, you can reach the stunning beaches of the Silver Coast which are perfect to relax on after a difficult round on the golf course if you can drag yourself away from relaxing in this luxurious hotel. This is an excellent location for your next stay-and-play golf escape and it isn’t hard to see why with its excellent golf course, great facilities and superb location.

Unusual Golf Escapes

by Ella Ruben

This week’s blog is a guide to some of our brilliant and interesting golf escapes. If you are looking for something a bit different and exciting, then look no further than one of these resorts or experiences as you will be offered a once in a lifetime experience. To learn about these interesting golf breaks read on and you may find one that piques your interest…

Rovos Rail was established in 1989 and since then, it has earnt a world-class reputation for its excellent service, superb cuisine and incredible experiences. You can choose from a range of journeys that last from between 48 hours to 15 days. There are three excellent packages that we offer with golf escapes and each of the journeys lasts nine days. The African Golf Collage begins in Pretoria before the train winds its way through some beautiful areas of Africa before ending up in Cape Town nine days later. Activities along the journey include a game drive in the Kruger National Park, a visit to the KWV Brandy Distillery and some spectacular rounds of golf at Leopard Creek, Durban Country Club, Humewood, Fancourt and Oubaai. Alternatively, you can choose from either the Golf Adventure or the Golf Safari which also offer you unique experiences at different National Parks, stunning views of the surrounding areas and rounds of golf on some of the world’s top golf courses. A trip on the Rovos Rail is not one to be passed up on and it isn’t hard to see why with its excellent service, delicious food and International wines as well as unforgettable experiences – travel in style on your next golf escape.

Next up, we have the Taj Mahal Trophy 2018 which is a unique and incredible golfing experience with a seven-night trip at the heart of the capital city of India. There are four impressive golf courses that you will get to experience: Golden Greens Golf and Country Club, Delhi Golf Club, Jaypee Greens Golf Resort and Classic Golf Resort. These are all unique and impressive golf courses that will provide you with some memorable rounds of golf and a passion for the wonderful country of India. Whilst you are on your journey, you will also have the opportunity to include some day trips. These trips include a trip to the Taj Mahal and Agra which will be a once in a lifetime experience, especially if you go at the right time of day. Whilst you are enjoying India and its fantastic culture and cuisine, you get the chance to stay in amazing five-star hotels with fabulous service, excellent golf and beautiful weather. If you are looking for a once in a lifetime golf break, then look no further than the Taj Mahal Trophy as it boasts everything that you need to have an incredible and life-changing holiday.

The Bell Inn is a Grade II listed building situated in a picture-perfect village in the heart of the New Forest and offers its guest a unique experience in an Inn with old rustic charm, comfortable and spacious bedrooms as well as stunning surroundings. The Inn boasts an informal feeling throughout and you are welcome to choose from four different areas to eat in. The large bar at the heart of the Inn boasts a double-aspect fireplace, cosy corners and comfy sofas to sink into whilst you enjoy a few drinks. The Oak Room is a warm and intimate decorated with earthy tones and burnished woods and then there is the beautiful, light and airy Garden Room where you feel as if you are dining alfresco even when you are inside, but there is a terrace you can choose to eat on during the warmer months. You can enjoy rounds of golf at Bramshaw Golf Club whilst you are here, on both the Forest Course and the Manor Course where you will enjoy a memorable round of golf and after your round, you can enjoy a few beverages and a bite to eat in the clubhouse. With beautiful rooms, a stunning location and great golf, this is a great choice for your next interesting and unique golf break.

Last, but certainly not least, located on the stunning island of La Gomera is Hotel Jardin Tecina. The resort is perched on top of the village where you can find an array of different bars and restaurants to enjoy. Its location means that the resort boasts stunning views of both the Atlantic Ocean and of the neighbouring island of Tenerife. This is the ideal place to enjoy the tranquillity and luxury of this wonderful resort whilst have the opportunity to play on a brilliant championship golf course which is Tecina Golf where you can find breathtaking views and memorable holes. Each of the beautiful rooms includes all of the luxuries that you would expect from a hotel of this standard as well as either a private balcony or terrace from which you can look out across the gardens and to sea. Whilst you are not enjoying Tecina Golf, you can relax around one of the five different pools or enjoy the sporting facilities or, if you are after the ultimate indulgence, take a trip to the spa. With excellent facilities, a wide range of drinking and dining options including five different bars and several restaurants serving traditional Spanish and Canary cuisine, you will never be short of somewhere great to drink and dine. This is an excellent choice if you are looking for the full package with golf, cuisine, weather and location.

 

We hope that you have enjoyed this week’s blog and that one of these excellent resorts or experiences has appealed to you for your next golf break…